Jan. 16, 2008

CHICAGO - In continuation of a tradition, the Horizon League will honor the late Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. with a student-centered arts contest, which will culminate with celebrations at seven men's and women's basketball games, including the Loyola University Chicago men's game versus Wright State on Jan. 19.

Each of the League institutions hosting games on Saturday has partnered with one or more local elementary or middle schools to organize a contest in which fifth- and sixth-graders submit a piece of art, an essay or a musical performance focusing on the life of Martin Luther King. Each grade school selects 15-20 winners for the contest.

"The Horizon League's annual Martin Luther King celebration is our continuing commitment to provide an educational service to children in our communities so that they learn more about Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., and the effect that his beliefs had on changing education and civil rights opportunities for men, women and children of all races," Horizon League senior associate commissioner Alfreeda Goff explained. "It is also an opportunity for them to express in their own way what affect his life has had on them and how they plan to live their lives."

The winners from Northside Catholic Academy in Chicago will receive three free tickets to the game, will be recognized on the court prior to Loyola's game against Wright State and will receive a commemorative gift from the Horizon League. In addition, winning projects will be displayed at the arenas.

Loyola and Wright State tip off their Jan. 19 contest at the Gentile Center at 7 p.m.